Two projects in Cessnock are among sixty-seven projects across regional NSW that have been approved for funding in the third round of the NSW Liberal National Government’s Fixing Country Roads program, Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald MLC announced today.

$50,000 will go towards the Mount Vincent to Millfield Major Culvert Load Capacity assessment and $668,300 will go towards Paynes Crossing Bridge along with $667,700 from the Commonwealth Government and $100,000 from Cessnock City Council for a total of $1,436,000.

Mr MacDonald said this investment would significantly reduce costs to business and industry, while driving economic growth and improving the lives of people across the state.

Senator for New South Wales, Arthur Sinodinos said, “This announcement, and the $667,700 contributed by the Turnbull Government to the Paynes Crossing Bridge project, is great news for the local community and local business. The Turnbull Government is committed to supporting regional Australia, and its critical infrastructure.”

Cessnock City Mayor, Councillor Bob Pynsent is delighted with this funding announcement, particularly the additional boost to Paynes Crossing Bridge which is jointly owned by Cessnock City and Singleton Councils.

“Large vehicles in excess of six tonnes are currently unable to access Paynes Crossing Bridge due to the severely deteriorated condition of the old timber bridge.”

“This much needed funding will allow both councils to construct a new two lane bridge to replace the existing single lane, load limited timber structure.”

“The new bridge will reopen freight movement in the area, removing a major detour of up to 70 kilometres which will ultimately benefit agricultural and tourism businesses across both local government areas,” added Cr Pynsent.

The latest round of funding is the biggest announcement under the program to date and is part of a $500 million commitment to regional communities under the Restart NSW program.